Pokémon Event at Controversial Yasukuni Shrine Canceled Amid Chinese Backlash

• A Pokémon card game event at Japan's Yasukuni Shrine was canceled after a strong backlash from China.
• The Yasukuni Shrine honors Japan's war dead, including convicted war criminals, and is viewed by China and Koreas as a symbol of Japan's lack of remorse for its wartime aggression.
• Chinese state media, including the People's Daily, criticized The Pokémon Company, warning brands against disregarding history and hurting Chinese sentiments.
• The Pokémon Company, an affiliate of Nintendo, apologized in Japanese and Chinese, stating the event was privately planned but mistakenly posted on its official website.
• The incident highlights escalating tensions between Japan and China, exacerbated by recent remarks from PM Sanae Takaichi regarding Taiwan.

Why It Matters: Pokémon event at controversial Yasukuni Shrine canceled due to Chinese backlash, highlighting geopolitical sensitivities.